I have just read Janice's opinion about the 'dangers' of working and living in Egypt and am quite amazed at the conclusions drawn. I have been working in Egypt for two years and, quite frankly, have no idea what she is talking about.
I am British, and have several American friends living here. Throughout the Iraq war there was never a bad word said to me or anyone I know. In fact, most people seemed to be making more of an effort than ever to make us feel at home. When the war was discussed, people were very sympathetic to the problems we (as Americans and Brits) had - ie having two governments who clearly had ulterior motives for their actions.
As for religious fundamentalism here, it's true, people are becoming more 'religious', but this isn't in any way affecting anyone but themselves. If you respect the customs here (ie - you don't dress in outfits showing excessive amounts of skin - for men and women) there really isn't a problem, and even if you don't most people will keep their disapproval to themselves.
And since when has a lull in the film and music industry been linked to the collapse in society and the onset of an Islamic revolution? If you walk around the coffe shops here most of the 'youth' are glued to MTV etc.
Anyway, enough. I have to agree with the last part of Janice's email. Egyptians are lovely people. I have had a great time working here. It is a place full of contradictions but that is what makes living here such a great experience.